Homebrew Amphibia Species Details

The first Bestia wandered the primeval habitats of the multiverse, and the magic of those habitats entwined itself with the Bestia’s souls. Centuries later, that magic still thrums inside a Bestia, even one who has never lived under the boughs of a great forest or the plains of a vast desert.

A Bestia's magic is dependent on whether they are considered a "Demi-" or "Were-" type, as well as what kind of animal they take after.

Bestias can live up to varying amounts of time.

Creating Your Character

At 1st level, you choose whether your character is a member of the human race or of a fantastical race. If you select a fantastical race, follow these additional rules during character creation.

Ability Score Increases

When determining your character’s ability scores, increase one score by 2 and increase a different score by 1, or increase three different scores by 1. Follow this rule regardless of the method you use to determine the scores, such as rolling or point buy. The “Quick Build” section for your character’s class offers suggestions on which scores to increase. You can follow those suggestions or ignore them, but you can’t raise any of your scores above 20.

Languages

Your character can speak, read, and write Common and one other language that you and your DM agree is appropriate for the character. The Player’s Handbook offers a list of languages to choose from. The DM is free to modify that list for a campaign.

Creature Type

Every creature in D&D, including each player character, has a special tag in the rules that identifies the type of creature they are. Most player characters are of the Humanoid type. A race tells you what your character’s creature type is.

Here’s a list of the game’s creature types in alphabetical order: Aberration, Beast, Celestial, Construct, Dragon, Elemental, Fey, Fiend, Giant, Humanoid, Monstrosity, Ooze, Plant, Undead. These types don’t have rules themselves, but some rules in the game affect creatures of certain types in different ways. For example, the cure wounds spell doesn’t work on a Construct or an Undead.

Life Span

The typical life span of a player character in the D&D multiverse is about a century, assuming the character doesn’t meet a violent end on an adventure. Members of some races, such as dwarves and elves, can live for centuries. If typical members of a race can live longer than a century, that fact is mentioned in the race’s description.

Height and Weight

Player characters, regardless of race, typically fall into the same ranges of height and weight that humans have in our world. If you’d like to determine your character’s height or weight randomly, consult the Random Height and Weight table in the Player’s Handbook, and choose the row in the table that best represents the build you imagine for your character.

Biological Functionality

Were-types possess a heightened metabolism that demands a protein-rich diet to sustain their physical transformations and strength. During their lunar cycle, their metabolism spikes, requiring increased intake to support rapid muscle growth and energy expenditure. Their diet typically includes lean meats, nuts, and grains to fuel their robust physique. Some Were-types may also have dietary preferences based on their animal form, such as carnivorous tendencies or specific nutritional needs during transformation phases. Demi-types exhibit a unique metabolic adaptation that integrates magical energies into their biochemical processes. This allows them to efficiently convert magical energy into physical and mental prowess, enhancing their endurance and resilience. Their dietary needs may include mana-infused foods, enchanted herbs, or specific minerals that bolster their magical abilities. Some Demi-types may require periodic recharging through ritualistic consumption of magical essences or potions to maintain optimal performance.

Were-types experience distinct fertility cycles tied to lunar phases, influencing mating behaviours and reproductive readiness. During peak lunar phases, hormonal surges trigger heightened fertility, enhancing their chances of successful mating and offspring conception. Mating rituals often involve territorial displays, dominance contests, or cooperative hunting expeditions to establish social hierarchies and secure mating partners. Offspring inherit traits from both Were-type and human lineage, exhibiting a blend of physical prowess, heightened senses, and occasional shape-shifting abilities depending on parental genetics and environmental factors. Demi-types may exhibit less defined fertility cycles compared to Were-types, with reproductive readiness influenced by magical potency and environmental factors rather than lunar phases. Mating rituals among Demi-types can vary widely based on cultural norms and magical affinities, ranging from courtship dances infused with elemental magic to ritual bonding ceremonies that reinforce ancestral bloodlines. Offspring of Demi-types inherit magical aptitudes and physical traits linked to their supernatural parentage, such as elemental affinities, telekinetic abilities, or heightened sensory perception, shaped by ancestral lineage and magical education.

Pyschological and Behavioural Aspects

Were-types often exhibit instinctual responses rooted in their animal forms. For example, during moments of danger or stress, they may resort to heightened senses, reflexive aggression, or territorial marking to assert dominance or ensure survival. Despite their primal instincts, Were-types can develop rational thought processes that aid in decision-making during non-transformation phases. This includes strategic planning for hunts, cooperative strategies in group settings, or diplomatic negotiations with other species. Demi-types rely heavily on their magical talents and intellectual capacities, often favouring rational thought over instinctual responses. They use their magical abilities to analyse situations, predict outcomes, and devise intricate plans that leverage their supernatural powers. While less pronounced than Were-types, Demi-types may still exhibit instinctual behaviours linked to their magical affinities. This could manifest as intuitive senses in detecting magical disturbances, empathetic connections with natural elements, or instinctual reactions to threats against their magical essence. Social hierarchies among Were-types are often determined by physical prowess, alpha dominance, and territorial claims.

Pack structures mirror animal social dynamics, with leaders emerging based on strength, cunning, and the ability to protect and provide for the pack. In Bestia communities, Demi-types may occupy roles as spiritual leaders, arcane scholars, or strategic advisors, leveraging their magical talents to influence societal norms and governance. Their rational approach to problem-solving and diplomacy can earn them respect and authority among their peers. Instinctual behaviours of Were-types can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or conflicts with humans, especially in territorial disputes or perceived threats to Bestia communities. Rational mediation by Demi-types often facilitates peaceful coexistence through cultural exchanges, trade agreements, or mutual defence pacts. Social alliances or conflicts with other supernatural beings are influenced by the balance between instincts and rationality. Were-types may form alliances based on mutual benefit or territorial agreements, while Demi-types negotiate magical treaties or collaborate on arcane research to advance supernatural interests.

Features

Animalistic features are more pronounced or exaggerated in feral Bestia. For example, feral Werewolves might have larger claws and more wolf-like facial features, while feral Vampires might exhibit bat-like wings or elongated fangs. Non-feral Bestia maintain more subtle or controlled animalistic traits. They might have smaller tails or less prominent horns compared to their feral counterparts, reflecting a blend of human and animal characteristics. Societal attitudes towards feral Bestia, who are often viewed with fear or suspicion due to their more overt animal traits and potential unpredictability. Explore how communities may have developed protective measures or even prejudices against feral individuals. Acceptance of non-feral Bestia, who may integrate more seamlessly into human societies or establish their own communities with distinct cultural norms and practices. Variations in animalistic features between feral and non-feral Bestia impact their daily lives. For instance, larger claws or sharper teeth in feral Bestia might facilitate hunting or self-defence, whereas non-feral individuals might use more refined versions of these traits for symbolic or cultural purposes. Feral Bestia might struggle with acceptance or self-control, while non-feral Bestia may emphasise their human-like attributes to fit into mainstream society.

Rituals and Ceremonies

A traditional rite of passage for Were-types might involve a transformative ritual where adolescents undergo a controlled shift to their animal form. This ritual tests their ability to control instincts and honour their animal lineage, marking their transition to adulthood. Demi-types could participate in magical ceremonies that enhance their connection to specific elemental or celestial powers. These rituals might include channelling rituals, where individuals commune with ancestral spirits or harness magical energies through meditation and incantations. Both Were-types and Demi-types may engage in purification rituals to cleanse themselves of negative energies or to balance their dual nature. For Were-types, this could involve sacred baths or herbal infusions to soothe primal instincts. Demi-types might perform rituals involving enchanted talismans or magical wards to purify their spiritual aura and enhance their magical capabilities. Bestia communities often hold ceremonies to honour ancestral spirits or nature deities associated with specific animal traits. These ceremonies may include offerings of food, dance rituals that mimic animal movements, or recitations of oral histories that recount heroic deeds of ancestors who embodied the virtues of their animal counterparts.

Art and Symbolism

Were-types and Demi-types might use totems carved from sacred wood or adorned with feathers, bones, or crystals to symbolise their animal affinities. These totems serve as spiritual guardians and symbols of strength, resilience, and ancestral wisdom within Bestia communities. Tribal markings could include intricate designs tattooed onto skin or painted onto ceremonial masks, reflecting an individual's animal traits and spiritual lineage. These markings are often passed down through generations and serve as visual identifiers of one's place within the community. Art among Bestia communities often depicts mythical creatures, hybrid beings, or anthropomorphic figures that blend human and animal characteristics. Sculptures, tapestries, and murals may showcase heroic legends or mythical battles involving Bestia with supernatural powers derived from their animalistic traits. Symbolism in art could emphasise virtues associated with specific animals, such as courage, cunning, or loyalty, highlighting the cultural significance of animal symbolism in shaping Bestia identity and societal values.

Mythical Canidae

Mythical Bestia are rare and legendary creatures, often a hybrid of two different supernatural races, excluding Humans. They are documented in the codex of legendary beasts, though many remain unaware or sceptical of their existence due to their rarity.

Mythical Bestia are hybrids, combining traits of both parent races. They are exceptionally rare, often the result of a rare genetic crossing between two supernatural races. Their existence is often met with scepticism or disbelief due to their rarity and mythical status. Many Mythical Bestia possess unique magical abilities or qualities derived from their hybrid lineage.

Mythical Bestia are steeped in folklore and mythology across cultures, often serving as symbols of power, purity, or danger. Sightings of Mythical Bestia are rare and sometimes considered omens or signs of great events in folklore.

Mythical Bestia arise from rare genetic crossings between two different supernatural races, resulting in offspring that embody aspects of both.

Mythical Bestia occupy a unique place in supernatural lore, embodying the blending of two distinct races into powerful and legendary creatures. Their existence continues to captivate imaginations and inspire tales of wonder and awe.

Full-Blooded Canidae

The number of known amphibian species is approximately 8,000, of which nearly 90% are frogs. The smallest amphibian (and vertebrate) in the world is a frog from New Guinea (Paedophryne amauensis) with a length of just 7.7 mm (0.30 in). The largest living amphibian is the 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) South China giant salamander (Andrias sligoi), but this is dwarfed by prehistoric temnospondyls such as Mastodonsaurus which could reach up to 6 m (20 ft) in length. The study of amphibians is called batrachology, while the study of both reptiles and amphibians is called herpetology.Full-Blooded Bestia are creatures whose lineage is entirely from Bestia ancestry. Unlike Mutts, who are born from mixed parentage, Full-Blooded Bestia inherit traits solely from Bestia parents, embodying the full extent of their species' characteristics.

Full-Blooded Bestia have both parents originating from Bestia ancestry, ensuring they inherit all genetic traits and abilities associated with their species. They possess all typical physical attributes and abilities associated with their species, such as Minotaurs' strength, Centaurs' speed, or Harpies' wings and talons. Their upbringing and cultural practices are rooted in Bestia traditions, often integrated into their daily lives and societal roles within Bestia communities. Generally accepted within Bestia societies, they contribute to and participate in cultural rituals, practices, and governance structures specific to their species.

Many Full-Blooded Bestia have specific names that identify their species, distinguishing them from hybrids or other magical beings. Examples include Minotaurs, Centaurs, Sphinxes, Faun/Se'irim/Satyr, and Harpies. Their genetic makeup is exclusively Bestia, ensuring they inherit all traits and abilities passed down from their Bestia ancestors.

Full-Blooded Bestia play integral roles in their societies, contributing skills, knowledge, and traditions unique to their species. Despite differences in appearance and abilities, Full-Blooded Bestia often unite in solidarity to protect their communities and uphold Bestia values and traditions. They generally experience acceptance and inclusion within Bestia communities, where their contributions are valued and respected.

Full-Blooded Bestia represent the pinnacle of Bestia lineage, embodying the entirety of their species' genetic and cultural heritage. Their presence enriches Bestia societies with diversity, tradition, and unique contributions that shape their communities and identities.

Ability Score Increase

Your Dexterity score increases by 1 and your Constitution increase by 1.

Proficiencies

You have proficiency in Perception and Stealth.

Size

Your size is Small or Medium.

Amphibious

You can breathe air and water.

Poison Immunity

You are immune to poison damage and the poisoned condition.

Darkvision

You have Darkvision 60 ft.

Compress (Demi-Types Only)

Reduce. The target's size is halved in all dimensions, and its weight is reduced to one-eighth of normal. This reduction decreases its size by one category - from Medium to Small, for example. Until the spell ends, the target also has disadvantage on Strength checks and Strength saving throws. The target's weapons also shrink to match its new size. While these weapons are reduced, the target's attacks with them deal 1d4 less damage (this can't reduce the damage below 1).

Shapechanger

The Amphibia can use its action to polymorph into a Amphibia-humanoid hybrid (Were-) or into a Amphibia (Demi-), or back into its true form, which is humanoid. Its statistics, other than its size, are the same in each form. Any equipment it is wearing or carrying isn't transformed. It reverts to its true form if it dies.

Amphibia Traits

As an Amphibia, you have the following racial traits.

Creature Type

You are a Humanoid.

Speed

Your walking speed is 30 feet.

Powerful Build

You count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift.